Quick Walkthrough of Google+ Pages for Small Businesses

Google recently rolled out Google+ branded pages, similar to a Facebook page. This Google+ feature is good news for small business owners as it allows us to create another marketing distribution channel within the social media landscape. Google holds true to building all of its products to mesh well with one another. More importantly, Google+ is transforming into a stronger tool for small business owners.

In a previous article, I touched base on the potential of Google+ as an ever expanding business tool. Google+ is adding a ‘suite-like’ mentality to all of its Google products. With the new web design of Gmail, the minimalist design of Google+, and the ever-convenient black bar running across the top of my Gmail page, I have a business suite presence with all of my Google products. I would encourage small business owners to revisit their Google products experience. Take a long, hard look at what web solutions work for you and if Google is fulfilling these needs for you.

Here is a quick walkthrough of setting up a Google+ page for your business:

1. Log into your Google account. (If you’re an avid Gmail user, just log in from the gmail.com page).

2. Click on the following URL:

http://plus.google.com/pages/create

3. You’ll encounter the first screen which asks you which category your page falls under.

4. After choosing the category, the a second screen will ask you to fill in brief information about your page. Notice the black bar that says you can surf Google+ as your branded page as well. This feature is similar to Facebook’s branded pages.

5. The last step allows you to announce your newly created page to your circles.

Note that if you’re surfing the Google+ as your page, you’ll need to create circles of people. Your circles from your Google+ profile do not automatically import over into your Google+ branded page profile.

There was a lot of buzz in the blogosphere about whether Google+ is a hit or miss in the social media capacity. I would encourage small business owners from wasting time in reading those articles. Rather, it’s always smarter to listen to your own thoughts before investing in the speculation of such articles. Take a few minutes to give Google+ branded pages a try and see if you feel comfortable using it as part of your business marketing. The only validation you need is your own!

Here is an original link to the official Google Blog article on Google+ branded pages. This is not mandatory reading–but if you’re curious about other Google+ branded pages, the article gives you a handful of links to check out.

Formerly at Mashable, Sana Ahmed is a Social Technology Consultant who streamlines technology strategies for business, learning, and personal productivity. She trains digital users on how to take back their technology and get down to business! Sana also contributes to AppAdvice.com, and works on her startups in her spare time.